Communications Dispatcher

About the role

The Communications Dispatcher is a vital part of the Emergency Management & Community Engagement team, operating a multi-channel radio system and receiving and transmitting information promptly, accurately, and professionally.

Responsibilities

• Answering emergency and non-emergency calls for service on a multi-line telephone system
• Entering and retrieving information through a Computer Aided Dispatch System (CAD) terminal
• Responding to inquiries and complaints and securing emergency assistance in a timely, efficient, and professional manner
• Contacting and requesting services of wreckers, emergency medical services, fire services, and other law enforcement services
• Operating a computerized information network terminal and entering and retrieving information through the Virginia Criminal Information Network (VCIN) and the National Law Enforcement Telecommunications System (NLETS)
• Filing messages properly and maintaining proper logs and information as necessary

Requirements

• Ability to think and speak clearly and concisely under stress
• Knowledge of current laws related to law enforcement at local, state, and federal levels
• Knowledge of disaster protocol, research, and planning
• Knowledge of law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical dispatch protocol
• Operation of a multi-channel radio system, multi-line telephone system, and computer-aided dispatch terminal

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old
• Current first aid and CPR certifications
• Industry knowledge in the field of Emergency Communications operations
• Experience as a dispatcher is preferred
• Must be able to complete certification as a dispatcher within 1 year of appointment
• Must not have convictions for felonies or crimes of moral turpitude and be able to pass random drug testing to maintain employment

Skills

• Effective communication both verbally and in writing
• Ability to intuitively reason, analyze information and events, and apply judgment to solve problems
• Excellent computer and organizational skills

Pay

Compensation is determined based on factors such as qualifications, experience, education, skills, and certifications. The pay range is $20.00 - $26.44.

Schedule

This is a full-time position, located onsite.